The Ensemble MidtVest presents a regaling performance of some of Poulenc's most memorable chamber works. Released by cpo, these chamber works offer the esoteric sounds that are common to Poulenc's compositional style.

American Record Guide, March / April 2013There are many good recordings of the flute and clarinet sonatas. Flutist Charlotte Norholt takes the opening movement of the flute sonata on the faster side, always emphasizing the forward motion. In the duo sonata, bassoonist Etienne Boudreault makes the most of blending, whereas in the trio he becomes a soloist and plays like one, becoming almost a whole different person. His vibrato is every bit as good as Peter Kirstein's, too, which is good since they have to play together in the trio. Hornist Erik Sandberg is a very bold and secure player who brings out all the contrast in the Elegy with great force and power. The sound is nice and clear.

Reviews

Warm and feeling performances of Poulencís works

This CD consists of 7 works of Poulencís for small ensemble. The Sonata for Clarinet and Piano is a warm and glorious piece as performed here, full of wistfulness and warmth and brought thrillingly to life by Svante Wikís glorious clarinet playing. The Elegy for Horn & Piano is right up this Poulenc loverís alley, and the Sonata for Flute & Piano is just beautiful. The Sonata for Oboe & Piano is an emotional conversation between the somewhat somber/melancholy Oboe (played by Peter Kirstein), shared with Martin Qvist Hansenís beautiful piano playing. The Sonata for Clarinet & Bassoon shows just what these two wind instruments can do with a master like Poulenc wielding the composers pen, and the Trio for Oboe, Bassoon & Piano is a perfect work to end the compilation with.

I was previously unfamiliar with the Ensemble MidtVest performers, but rest assured that if I ever have the opportunity to hear them in person that I will most definitely take advantage of it. The recording quality of the CD is fantastic from start to finish, and the dynamic range of the instruments is captured beautifully.